Liugong Temple is a memorial temple built to honor Liu Min, the son of Emperor Liu Bian of the Eastern Han Dynasty, and his wife, who were known for their virtue and benevolence, as well as their efforts in aiding those in distress. Throughout history, due to natural disasters and wars, the temple has been relocated several times and restored on multiple occasions, yet the worship has never ceased. According to historical records, Liugong Temple was first established during the Ming Dynasty. In the 14th year of the Guangxu Emperor’s reign (AD 1888), when the Beiyang Navy was formed on Liugong Island, Zhang Wenxuan, the commander of the garrison stationed on the island, funded the temple’s reconstruction to ensure the protection of Liugong and Liumu for both soldiers and civilians. During the inspection ceremony of the Beiyang Navy, Prince Yi Huan, the Qing Dynasty’s naval minister, and Li Hongzhang paid homage at the temple. The Beiyang Navy soldiers would visit the temple to offer incense and worship before each mission or battle. In 1898, when Britain forcibly leased Weihaiwei, all the land and houses on Liugong Island were purchased by the British, forcing residents to relocate outside the island. Consequently, Liugong Temple was also moved off the island, and although the temple no longer exists, a stone tablet remains with the inscription ‘Gods rely on people, the temple moves outside the island.’ The original site of Liugong Temple still exists on Liugong Island. To enrich the cultural landscape of Liugong Island, the temple was rebuilt in 1994, covering an area of 800 square meters. It features a mountain gate at the front, followed by bell and drum towers on the left and right. Ascending a step leads to the central courtyard, and the eastern hall is inscribed with ‘Qiong Island’s Vicissitudes,’ while the western hall is inscribed with ‘Fame through the Ages.’ Each hall houses five sets of colorful clay sculptures depicting the divine traces of Liugong and Liumu, as well as the historical changes of Liugong Island over two thousand years. The main hall hangs a plaque reading ‘Light of the Sea’ and features seated statues of Liugong and Liumu, flanked by eight two-meter-tall statues representing Wind, Rain, Thunder, Lightning, Thousand-Mile Vision, Ears of the Wind, Righteousness, and Evil. The content arrangement fully reflects the spirit of the island and local customs. Liugong Temple is a tourist attraction for understanding the origin and history of Liugong Island’s name. Since its reconstruction, visitors have been coming in droves. The temple is open all year round from 08:30 to 16:30, with specific operating hours subject to daily conditions.
Weihai Liugong Temple
Liugong Temple is a memorial temple built to honor Liu Min, the son of Emperor Liu Bian of the Easte[...]
